How to clean a glass stove top (without scratching it).

What you’ll need:

• Microfiber cloth (You can also use the soft side of a sponge.)
• Spray bottle
• Stove cleaner (mild dish soap, baking soda, and white vinegar or a specialized cooktop cleaner for glass stoves)

Pro tip: Your stove manufacturer may also sell specialized scraping tools to help with deep cleans that don’t scratch the surface.

Things to avoid using on your glass stove.

Don't use any of the following materials when cleaning glass surfaces, including your glass cooktop:

• Abrasive powder cleansers
• Ammonia
• Brushes with steel bristles and other ferrous scrubbing brushes
• Chlorine bleach
• Rust removers
• Paper towels
• Steel wool

Just remember: Glass breaks and scratches easily. It’s better to use gentle cleaning tools and cleansers to avoid damaging this delicate type of stove top.

Step 1: Wait for the stove to cool.

Don’t burn your hands while cleaning your stove. Allow the stove to completely cool first. Look for a light on the stove that indicates if it’s still hot.

Step 2: Remove all pans, pots and utensils.

Clear the surface before cleaning. This step also helps you avoid injury from bumping into hot or dangerous items left on the stove.

Make sure to lift each item off instead of dragging them off, which could cause scratches.

Step 3: Assemble the cleaning solution.

Unless you’re using an already-prepared glass stove cleaning solution, you have a couple of options for making your own:

• Option 1: Add a mild dishwashing liquid or detergent to hot water and dilute it. Once it’s cooled, add it to a spray bottle.
• Option 2: Put vinegar in a spray bottle, and set the baking soda nearby.

Step 4: Clean the stove.

Once your stove has completely cooled, and you’ve removed all apparatus from on top of it, you’re ready to clean.

If there’s residue on the stove, start by scraping the cooktop with a glass stove scraper to remove it. Place the scraper flat against the surface as you scrape. Remember, only use a scraper from a glass stove manufacturer so you avoid scratching the glass.

Depending on what type of solution you’re using, there are different methods to clean a glass stove:

• If you’re using a glass stove cleaner, follow the directions on how to use it. Generally, you’ll want to apply the glass cleaner solution to the stove surface and let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes. Grab your microfiber cloth to wipe it off. Wipe it off in a circular motion.
• If you’re using vinegar and baking soda, start by sprinkling baking soda on top. Then, spritz on some white vinegar so that a paste forms. Apply a soft, damp cloth in circular motions to wipe off the solution.
• If you’re using a diluted dish detergent mixture, spray the surface with the cleaner. Then, apply a soft cloth in circular motions to wipe off the solution.

Repeat the process as needed if you don’t get the stove top completely clean the first time.

Step 5: Polish the stove.

Once you’ve cleaned the glass stove, use another dry microfiber cloth to buff and polish the glass surface and get it gleaming.

Best practices for cleaning glass stoves.

When cleaning your glass cooktop, keep these tips in mind:

• Clean frequently. The best way to prevent dirt build-up and grime on a glass stove is to clean it after each use. Cleaning becomes easier and more effective when you maintain your glass stove daily. As soon as your stove is completely cooled, follow the above steps to clean it with each use.
• Wipe up spills immediately. If the stove is dirty from milk, syrup, sugar, or tomato products, you’ll want to clean those immediately so they don't harden or stain.
• Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning your glass stove top. Your manufacturer may have specialized cleaning directions, as well as tools and products that are recommended for that specific model.
• Keep an eye out for white marks or scratches. If you notice any, keep in mind they’re likely due to incorrect cleaning tools, products, or methods you've used in the past.
• Wash the microfiber cloth after each use. Prevent the spread of germs by only using clean cloths when cleaning your kitchen appliances.
• Remove hard water or white stains while you're cleaning. Apply a mixture of white vinegar and water on a dry cloth and rub that on the stains.

Need help with this project? Download the Thumbtack app.

Now you know how to clean a glass stove top. However, if you need more help with cleaning, your stove has become damaged, or you need someone to perform repairs, Thumbtack can help. 

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